The First Annual Second Life Sand & Sea Expo Is Here!

And readers, you’re in for a treat if you like things watery! (No, not THAT kind of watery, just for a change!) There are contributions here from some of the best creators on the grid and you’ll find a huge variety of items for sale. When you TP to the upper landing point you can gaze out at some spectacular ships, sailboats and watercraft, but that’s not all, because there’s just as much action beneath the waves, where you’ll find an astonishing underwater paradise ripe for exploration. It’s also a great event to capture some fantastic photographs too!

The main attraction for me was the range of sailing equipment and boats and I wasn’t disappointed, because the detailing on some of them is absolutely astonishing. You may not be able to take them for a sail, but you can hop on and in some cases experience certain animations, which is definitely worth a try.

I was excited to see Motor Loon was exhibiting here, because I actually already own his sensational Loonetta sailboat, and I was chuffed to see he was showcasing his soon to be released jet-ski collection. But I was equally pleased to encounter other watercraft builders too, such as JP Collections and Southern Seas Ships with builds ranging from the traditional to modern. You can even find an airboat for sale from Tuff here, which is perfect should you live in the virtual everglades! (Note: I’m going to do a bigger post about sailing in Second Life in the very near future, and I’ll be featuring some ships and boats from these creators in that piece, stay tuned!)

It’s nice to see representation from the Sailing clubs in-world too. Sailing is huge in Second Life, and is a hobby that I only discovered recently myself and I am already addicted! (I would heartily recommend anyone give it a try) so it’s nice to find that the clubs aren’t elitist and open to new members approaching them, which is something I am very tempted to do. I was also intrigued to see a number of real estate vendors had stands here too. And why not? At least in Second Life you can live your dream of a beach front paradise, even if you live in a grim and dreary rundown terrace in real life!

If your main watery concern is topping up your virtual tan with friends, then be sure to cast your eyes across the ranges from esteemed creators LISP, {What Next} and Chez Moi. You’ll find beach towels, umbrellas and even a glorious hot-tub to enjoy with friends. There are items to suit every budget, and lots of variations upon the outdoor living theme. To be perfectly honest I lost count of the numbers of chairs and fire pots that were on display, but that’s not a bad thing because there is something here to suit every taste and they are all well worth seeing and trying out! In fact I recommend doing just that and camming around if you can. There are plenty of vendors here where you can crack open a beer and relax, and if you feel inspired to replicate the environment back at home then rest assured you will find everything you need to create your very own watery haven here, from furniture to bars to actual islands and buildings to place upon them, everything is ready to be bought and enjoyed back at your home location.

Be sure to check out the Palm Tree House Hut from Jamy’s Shop, and the stunning range of builds from Headhunter’s island. Appearance and function are everything, and the mesh and texture work here is tantalising, from the smallest starfish to the larger sailboats, so believe me when I say that you will need Lindens in your pockets because you will be very tempted by what you’ll find on sale, and you’ll probably discover a new found enthusiasm for all things sailing! My recommendation? Drop by the {What Next} stand and rez a bicycle, for a leisurely ride around the displays while you make up your mind what to buy. (Hint: ALL THE THINGS!!)

I mentioned that there was an underwater element to the occasion and it’s well-worth donning scuba gear for. I love the submerged Zero I found whilst exploring. The underwater vista is really atmospheric. This section is perfect for Mer-folk and virtual diving enthusiasts, and you’ll discover beautiful seascapes, pods of cetaceans and the Oceanic Breedable sharks. (Strange as it may seem they’re not the only virtual breedable pet here, I thought it was only Turkish Van cats that liked the water but judging by the Kittycats that are on display it seems I was wrong! Some of them even like surfing…)

Last but not least there are loads of freebies available here, but you have to be lucky enough to win them. There’s a fun beachcomber event taking place, whereby selected vendors have placed seashells at their booths and by clicking on them you may or may not win a prize. I’ve been lucky enough to have a sneaky peek at the prizes and they’re definitely worth trying out for!

You’ll find the expo runs from 2nd-5th May which isn’t very long, but it could open up a whole new way of virtual living for you. Right, must dash. I’m heading off to the Blake Sea for some sunset sailing and a rousing chorus of “We Are Sailing!” Who’s with me?